At the Board of Education Meeting on Monday, December 2, we were able to spotlight the TORCH Award presented during the month of November. This newly branded award recognizes district staff for their exceptional commitment to students and our district.

Mill Creek Middle School was the first stop in November for the TORCH Award where Proud Superintendent Cory Gibson and Principal Andrew Legler recognized Band Teacher Jessica Treat. While only in her second year at Mill Creek, Jessica has quicky inspired a love of music for her students while also fostering a supportive and fun learning environment. Whether she has her band students rallying the crowd during one of the MCMS sporting events, or have them jamming in the classroom, Mrs. Treat engages all her students while adapting to their different skill levels and personalities. Above all, she encourages her musicians to achieve their personal best. This includes helping them earn their first ever “One” rating at the Worlds of Fun Festival of Music this past spring. 

While at MCMS, we tracked down Shauna Morris, a devoted Paraprofessional, to present her with the TORCH award for the month of November. Principal Andrew Legler shared that Shauna, a most beloved staff member, has proven to be a team player by collaborating with teachers and parents to ensure students’ needs are being met. She is a shining example of what it means to be patient and sympathetic while building positive relationships with students. Mrs. Morris adapts to the diverse needs of the students of Mill Creek and provides personalized support. She truly exemplifies the school’s mission statement: “Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve”. 

Next on the list for the November TORCH Award presentations was Horizon Elementary.  Principal Steve Crutchfield shared with eager first graders why their teacher, Suzanne Rachwal, was selected to receive the TORCH award. Suzanne believes in her students and is confident in their ability to learn. Because of this belief, she is continually willing to try new and exciting ways for her students to grow as learners. This includes testing out a new reading program within her classroom and is seeing success with students. She is also teaching other educators how to incorporate this program, along with other ideas, into their classrooms. 

The final TORCH award presented for month of November was to Horizon's Lead Secretary, Sarah Hemberger. Sarah joined the staff at Horizon mid-year last year and quickly became a reliable part of their team. With her calm demeanor, Sarah knows to jump in to help wherever and whenever it is needed. Through patience, grace and flexibility, Sarah offers positive, unwavering support to the entire Horizon community of staff, students and families.

Congratulations to this month's staff members for being recognized with the TORCH Award. We are so very thankful to have you all as part of our district!